The Carolina Panthers quarterback situation in 2021 was an absolute disaster. Amid the carousel at the position that saw them cycle through Sam Darnold, PJ Walker, and Cam Newton with seemingly no ultimate goal in mind caused a ton of confusion among the fanbase, and it seems the players were left unsettled, too. When asked about a potential return to the Panthers, Newton kept it real with the media, saying he wouldn't mind playing as a backup in 2022, but he's all about winning. Via Nick Carboni, Newton told reporters that he is “not coming back for no 5-12.”

If the Panthers truly want to bring Newton back for 2022, they'd have to show some indication that they can turn things around. The 5-12 record they finished the 2021 season with won't suffice if they're hoping to retain the 32-year-old in any capacity, as a backup or a starter.

Newton's comments suggest he is highly unlikely to return in 2022, but there's a long offseason ahead, during which a lot of things could change regarding the veteran QB's decision. If no market emerges for him in free agency, perhaps he'd consider a return to the Panthers, even under Matt Rhule's leadership.

Via David Newton, the Panthers QB said he didn't want to “jump the gun” on any decision, having just finished up the regular season less than a full day ago.

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After re-signing with the Panthers at the midway point of the 2021 season, Newton recorded five starts and featured in eight games. He went 0-5 in games he started, completing 54.8% of his passes for 684 yards, four touchdown passes, and five interceptions. He also rushed 47 times for 230 yards and five touchdowns.